Wanted

Rating – ***1/2

The most insane and enjoyable gun-worshipping slice of Hollywood escapism this side of the original Matrix. Wanted quickly makes things very clear, the action is going to be NUTS! What you’ve seen in the (strangely ineffective and forgetful) trailer is merely the tip of the iceberg. Just forget about the laws of physics and good taste. Somehow Wanted succeeds where so many others have failed. This is the film which successfully realises the joys Crank and Shoot ‘Em Up only hinted at. The script is sharp and frequently hilarious (so it’s not just the action you’ll laugh joyfully at) James McAvoy skilfully tackles the “Neo” role with charm. The direction by Timur Bekmambetov is frequently inspired. He brought the same energy and visual flair to Nightwatch but I never liked the rest of that film. Here, he’s found the right material. Basically, Wanted surpassed every expectation. The audience was cheering and laughing throughout. So I’m pleased to say I played a small role in the visual effects. Framestore created the digital environment for the train crash sequence. I spent a few days lovingly rotoscoping Angelina Jolie’s perfectly formed arse as she hangs over a cliff. Leave your brain at home, buy a big tub of popcorn and have fun!